Helen Foster Snow (September 21, 1907 – January 11, 1997)

Helen Foster Snow had an historic impact on journalism with her work in China, Korea, and Japan. She was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 and 1984 for her work, connection and “friendship bridge” with the Chinese people. She was also the second American to be awarded the title of “Friendship Ambassador,” the highest honor bestowed by the Chinese People’s Association for friendship with foreign countries.
She arrived in China in 1931 and spent nearly a decade there interviewing, journaling and writing. Snow and her husband Edgar were the first foreigners who broke through the news blackout by the national government, sneaking into the “red areas” of China, and as such were the first to do exclusive interviews with major Chinese political figures. Snow was the second foreign woman to enter the area. She was able to interview Mao Zedong and get his support for what was to become the Chinese Industrial Cooperatives and “gung ho” movement.